December 25th

Chinese archeologists are thrilled with the recent discovery of the grand gate of the Daming Palace, "the largest imperial architectural complex of the Tang Dynasty (618-907)". The Vermillion Phoenix Gate had five doorways, making it the largest palace gate in Chinese history.

A skeleton found under the Newport Ship could have belonged to a man who was decapitated in a sacrificial killing, a leading archaeologist working on the project says. But there is also the possibility that he met his end in the waters of the River Usk by drowning.

Fra Angelico was the model of a self-effacing medieval monk whose art was an expression of religion. Pope John Paul II beatified the 14th century monk, bringing him one step closer to sainthood, and his name and his genius are still celebrated 550 years later.

Judith of Troll Fen reports that the African and Middle Eastern Division of the Library of Congress has released Islamic Manuscripts from Mali as part of its Global Gateway collection. The collection is available online.

Experts examining an Iron Age skeleton found discovered buried beneath a medieval ship in Newport, South Wales, say it is "remarkably well preserved." Tests on the bones by forensic archaeologists at Lampeter University, Mid Wales, have shown that they date back to 170 B.C.

The Not-So-Silent Silent Auction: Join the Midrealm Ministers of Regalia, Contessa Tamara di Firenze and Master Matthew Christopher of Bristol, for an auction of decommissioned Kingdom regalia items. Proceeds will be used to purchase new regalia and maintain current items.

The Auction will be held from 1:00 to 3:00. Master Matthew Christopher and a cavalcade of various and sundry performers will be making merry in the truest Twelfth Night tradition at the auction area: come prepared to be amused and amazed, as you place your bids to become the proud owners of pieces of Midrealm History.

Marc Gunn and Kristen Roger have announced that the Renaissance Festival Podcast will sponsor award presentations for the best Renaissance Festival Performers. Those interested may vote online until January 15, 2006.

On December 10, 2005 at the Boar's Head event in the Kingdom of Northshield, during evening court, their Majesties Æsa Gilsdottir and Kitadate-tenno recognized Kevin O'Shaughnessy as a Master of the Pelican and a Master of the Laurel.